Sensory Play is plays a very important role here at daycare. Beyond just the fact the kids love to get their hands dirty, sensory play actually contributes to brain development. When a child's senses are engaged, new neural pathways are created to assist with further learning in later years. By creating those pathways, we open up new ways to retain memories and learning. For this sensory bin you will need: 5 packets of gelatin 3 cups cold water 2 cups warm water Blue food

I have been having recurrent nightmares about mass shootings. On Sunday morning, after one such dream, I woke up in a funk. My body was holding a very uncomfortable anxiety and my brain was racing to try to connect a reason to the feeling. I started downward spiraling, bumming about our finances, the violence in the world, and the sexual predation that is plaguing the news. I just couldn't shake it. I don't normally hold anxiety, so it seemed very heavy to a body unaccust

"UNDER THE SEA" This month we are learning all about the ocean and creatures that live within it. We are going to punctuate the unit by taking the childcare out of Longmont, and on a field trip to the Denver Aquarium. Each day, we learn about a new animal and then we make a craft version of the animal. I was very excited to try this sea urchin recreation. For this sea urchin craft, you will need: Styrofoam balls Black tempura non-toxic paint Toothpicks Plastic Baggies Pape

One of the biggest objectives I have for the kids that graduate from my care, is for them to have the ability to freely emote and use acceptable strategies to both hold and channel their feelings. After a particularly rough week with the kids, I realized that I had sorta lost track of my own processing skill set. It became hard to expect toddlers to proficiently manage feelings when I had gotten into the bad habit of my eyes going blank every time a kid's scream hit a parti